Correct Option
The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The latitudinal extent of a country influences the duration of day and night as one moves from the equator toward the poles. Places closer to the equator experience less variation in the length of day and night throughout the year, while places closer to the poles experience significant variation.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: The mainland of India extends from 8°4' N to 37°6' N latitude. The difference between these two extremes is approximately 30°. Similarly, the longitudinal extent is also approximately 30°.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The latitudinal extent has a direct and significant influence on the duration of day and night. As the latitude increases (moving away from the equator), the difference between the duration of day and night increases.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: Kanniyakumari is located near the equator (approx. 8°N), where the difference between the duration of day and night is minimal (hardly felt, roughly 45 minutes). In contrast, Kashmir is located far from the equator (approx. 37°N), where the difference in day length between summer and winter is very distinct (up to 5 hours). The statement reverses this reality.
Key Takeaway
Latitude determines the duration of daylight. The variation in the length of day and night is minimal at the equator and increases progressively towards the poles.